AUTISM Spectrum Australia (Aspect) has announced the development of a new K-6 campus in Port Macquarie. Set to open in early 2026, the new campus in Thrumster is designed to meet the growing demand for autism-specific education in the region. It will provide a purpose-built learning environment for primary schoolchildren on the autism spectrum and […]

Dreams of a puppy and meeting Oscar Piastri come true for two of Port’s ‘wish kids’
VOLUNTEERS from Make-A-Wish Port Macquarie are helping local children facing serious illness. The branch, founded in 2015, has 10 active volunteers from Crescent Head to Diamond Beach. Together, they create tailored Wish Journeys that give children a chance to focus on something positive, even in the middle of treatment. Tammy Frater has been a volunteer […]
‘Adopt a Street’ to connect businesses with flood-affected neighbourhoods
A NEW community-driven initiative is bringing together local businesses and residents from flood-impacted streets, in a demonstration of support and kindness. “Adopt a Street – Flood Support” is a grassroots response that invites local businesses to “adopt” a flood-affected street within the community. By offering everything from coffee vouchers and meals, to clean-up help or […]

Landslips close Oxley Highway at Mt Seaview in both directions
THE Oxley Highway between Forbes River and Clay roads will remain closed until further notice because of landslips. More than 100 new landslips have been detected on this section of the highway since heavy rainfall over the past week. Engineers are urgently assessing damage and planning clean-up operations and long-term repairs. Transport for NSW (TfNSW) […]

Scamming behaviour tipped to spike following natural disaster
PREDATORY scammer activity is predicted to skyrocket in the wake of the recent rains and flood disasters. In the aftermath of severe flooding, the State Government is urging people to remain vigilant when donating to recovery efforts. As communities recover and rebuild, authorities are warning that scammers may attempt to exploit the situation through fake […]
Koalas ‘safe’ as hospital’s tree giveaway continues
ALL the furry residents of the Port Macquarie Koala Hospital and Guulabaa Visitor Centre are safe after last week’s deluge. “Despite the extreme weather, our dedicated koala care team has been onsite every day to ensure they’re protected, well-fed with fresh leaves, and closely monitored,” a spokesperson from Koala Conservation Australia told News Of The […]
Heart of the Haven: Anissa Hilton
AFTER moving to Camden Haven from Orange in 1998 and serving the local community at the Commonwealth Bank Branch in Laurieton for the past 23 years, Anissa Hilton began a journey in martial arts that has since grown into a passion and a purpose. What started in 2011 as a mum watching her daughter train […]
Celebrating the heart of Little Wings during Volunteer Appreciation Week
LITTLE Wings is putting its helpers in the spotlight during Volunteer Appreciation Week, 19-23 May. As a 90 percent volunteer-led organisation, Little Wings relies on the dedication of its pilots, drivers, ground crew and events team: each playing a critical role in supporting seriously ill and injured children and their families. The service is honouring […]
NPWS responds to fears families will lose out if camping fee changes go ahead
WITH the cost-of-living already making holidays inaccessible for many families, there are fears a proposed increase in National Park camping fees is set to deliver another blow. Member for Oxley Michael Kemp says some fees could increase so dramatically that a week-long stay at a national park campground may exceed $600, potentially pricing out local […]
Campaigns to spread the warmth in Port Macquarie and Wauchope
THE wet and chilly weather is an important reminder to consider donating a little warmth to the Hastings’ most vulnerable residents. New and next-to-new blankets, doonas and other warm items are currently being accepted by the Rotary Club of Port Macquarie West through its Winter Woollies Drive, and by Wauchope Rotary through its Winter Blanket […]